Before You Start

To protect surrounding items and surfaces from spray paint, spread your drop cloth over your working table and nearby items.

Step 1 — Sand the Mailbox

First, sand the mailbox and flag with the medium grit sanding sponge to loosen dirt and rust. Wipe down the mailbox with a wet, soapy cloth to remove dirt. Once the mailbox and flag are clean, continue to sand until the metal no longer has a glossy surface.

Do a final wipe of the entire mailbox and flag with your tack cloth to remove any remaining dust.

Step 2 — Prime the Mailbox and Flag

Remove the flag from the mailbox and set aside.

To stop the paint from blistering, flaking and peeling off your mailbox, use Rust-Oleum Professional Aluminum Primer before painting. This will make sure your hard work lasts!

Shake the primer for about one minute after the ball begins to rattle. Hold the can 10-16 in. from the surface of the mailbox, and spray the primer in a steady back and forth motion. Apply 2-3 coats a few minutes apart.

Repeat these steps to prime the flag.

Step 3 — Spray Paint the Mailbox and Flag

Similar to applying the primer, shake the can for one minute after the ball begins to rattle, hold the can about 10-16 in. from the surface, and apply 2-3 coats in a back and forth motion—allowing a few minutes in between each coat.